I have the old version and I have never had leather problems with it. My daughter has the old version as well and just bought the new version in blue. The differences are the lining in the new is heavier and the bag holds shape. She loves it. She thinks there may be a finish difference in the new one but not sure. We both like our old versions very much due to the fact they can be folded and put in a suitcase. It's a great go to bag when you travel and are shopping. In my opinion, which ever you purchased you will enjoy. You can tell which you purchased as the new one holds its shape. My daughter said the lining of the new model is soft and wonderful. She also uses her old one for work and she is a health care professional and throws her Dorset in a locker and has no leather problems so don't worry but enjoy.